Data Classification Initiative
The Data Classification Initiative is a multi-year effort to reimagine data classification at UW–Madison. The initiative is jointly sponsored by Didier Contis (Vice Provost for Information Technology) and Allison La Tarte (Vice Provost for Data, Academic Planning & Institutional Research).
Data classifications are necessary to secure and protect data in a predictable manner, consistent with the risk posed to the organization and to the individual. Differences between UW–Madison and Universities of Wisconsin System data classification policies have created confusion about how to manage information that is critical to many university business functions, including data governance, cybersecurity, data management, and compliance.
This initiative aims to reduce confusion, strengthen compliance and lower security risk by improving how we classify data.
What’s changing
UW–Madison will retire its Data Classification Policy (UW-504) as of December 31, 2026. Beginning January 1, 2027, the university will follow UW System’s Data Classification Policy (SYS 1031), ensuring consistent practices across institutions. In place of the current four-tier model, UW–Madison will adopt the system-wide, three-tier model for data classification.What will be done to support the change
Supporting tools, training, and resources will be developed to make the transition to the new three-tier data classification model smooth and sustainable. Examples include:- Clear UW–Madison examples for real-world context
- Systems enhanced with labels/tags to guide decisions
- Just-in-time tools and automation that make classification part of everyday work
The team
Working closely with our executive sponsors the initiative steering team will ensure alignment with the broader IT policy and data and reporting space.
- Didier Contis, Chief Information Officer and Vice Provost for Information Technology, Division of Information Technology
- Allison La Tarte, Vice Provost and Chief Data and Analytics Officer, Data, Academic Planning & Institutional Research
- Co-leads
- Heather Johnston, IT Policy Writer & Analyst, Division of Information Technology
- Lisa Johnston, Data Governance Director, Data, Academic Planning & Institutional Research
- Core team
- Crague Cook, Organizational Change Manager, Division of Information Technology
- Steffanie Johnson, Information Security Analyst, Division of Information Technology
- Jeanette School, Business Systems Analyst, Division of Information Technology
- Sue Weier, Information Security Officer, Letters & Science Administration
- Policy Update & Resource Development
- Input and engagement: Multiple stakeholder groups
- Schema Augmentation & Systems Integration
- Input and engagement: Multiple stakeholder groups
- Research Data
- Input and engagement: Multiple stakeholder groups
- Training
- Input and engagement: Multiple stakeholder groups
Initiative timeline
High-level milestones
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